Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum)

About Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum)

Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum) is native to Southeast Asia and closely related to lychee and longan. It produces clusters of fruit with a distinctive hairy red-and-yellow rind, enclosing sweet, aromatic, juicy flesh.

Growing Conditions

• Sunlight: Needs a minimum of 4-6 hours of direct sunlight.
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile, organically rich soil.
• Climate: Loves tropical and subtropical climates with good humidity; established plants tolerate brief cool spells down to about 5°C.

Planting & Spacing

Grows best planted directly in the ground with room to mature into a tree; can be grown in a large growing bag while young.

Care

• Watering: Water when the topsoil (2-3 inches) feels dry; maintain moisture near the root zone.
• Fertilizer: Organic or homemade compost once every 3 months.
• Pruning: Regular light pruning maintains shape; remove dead, infected, or damaged parts promptly.

Fruiting & Harvest

This variety typically begins fruiting 3-5 years after planting. Rind turns a vivid red-and-yellow and the spines soften slightly when the fruit is ripe.

Note: This listing ships a young nursery plant, not a fruiting tree. Time to first fruit and yield vary by climate, care, and region - we don't promise a fixed timeline.